Place mats stuck on the wall with double-sided tape provide an inexpensive decor. (
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Can your duvet cover help boost your college G.P.A? Maybe, according to design experts.
“I’ve always looked at the neuroarchitectural side of design and how it enhances your life. Imagine how a decluttered space with the right colors can evoke a certain mood and make you more productive, and contribute to your success,” says Taniya Nayak, star of HGTV’s “Destination Design.”
When planning your design scheme, it’s a good idea to consult with your roommate prior to a design overhaul, advises Nayak.
“Talking together before move-in day allows you to come up with a theme, or discuss favorite style likes and dislikes so that your room is coordinated,” says the television host.
If you lack the knack for interior design, start by taking a few clues from your music and wardrobe tastes.
“CD covers that get your attention serve as great ways to build a color palette. And if you normally dress in jeans and a T-shirt, chances are you’re best suited to a comfortable, casual, relaxed space. If you’re a pencil skirt and button-down shirt kind of gal, you probably favor a more formal, crisp, pristine environment,” advises Nayak.
Necessities today for the well-outfitted dorm include pieces that have multifunctional uses, including ottomans that double as storage cubes and trunks that hide storage and also serve as extra seating.
Design challenges common to dorm rooms include “no nails on the wall” policies and limited natural light.
Nayak recommends wall decals that peel off, or even taking a large number of place mats and using double-sided tape to hang them up.
“You can even put cork behind it for use as a message board,” she says.
Accessorizing should also be highly personalized. “If you’ve played baseball much of your young life, bring in old softballs in a hurricane vase for a cool nod to your passion,” suggests Nayak.
You can create a wall of art by hanging decorative handbags, she adds. Baseball caps also serve well.
Plan to allot upwards of $500 for bedding, a coffee maker, microwave, toiletries, bath caddies and art. Thinking out of the box will stretch your money. For example, use shower curtains as window treatments. “There are so many attractive options, and they are much more affordable,” says Nayak.
Retailers are increasingly taking notice and catering to this burgeoning market.National home décor retailer Home Goods recently partnered with Nayak to create five designer dorm rooms in a distinct style — Bali, Preppy Chick, Rocker Girl, Surfer Chick and All-American Boy. Each room costs between $500 and $700 to put together. (To view images of all five dorms rooms Nayak decorated, visit homegoods.com/dormrooms.asp.)
Pottery Barn is also targeting the college set. The first Pottery Barn dorm catalog launched this summer, according to Jennifer Kellor, senior vice president of PBteen Merchandising.
The company has introduced a line of extra-long twin sheeting to accommodate dorm mattresses. The stylish, quality sets range from preppy to bohemian.
“The bedding is the cornerstone of a room,” says Kellor. To help you coordinate complementary bedding products, PB has introduced an online bedding configurator tool to help you layer your own sheets with a duvet cover and pillows.
“We are focused on helping students create great environments. Once their rooms are the way they want it, they can focus on meeting new friends and acing their first semester,” says Kellor.
DORM ESSENTIALS
* Stock this handy fridge with study-break snacks and drinks. Just 19.5 inches by 20 by 19.5. $199; pbteen.com/dorm
* Spread a happy vibe across your room with the Berkley duvet and pillowcase set. $26 to $89; pbteen.com/dorm
* Combat the winter blues. HappyLight 6000 from Verilux emulates daylight to help improve mood and well-being. An energy efficient bulb uses only 36 watts to produce 300 watts of natural spectrum light. $89.95; verilux.com and jcpenney.com
* Peter Walsh You Organized incorporates the techniques of designer and organization expert Peter Walsh to create a modern, functional and affordable collection of organizers and accessories. Computer desk, $179.99, magnetic boards, $7.49 to $29.99; Office Max stores, officemax.com
* Keep your valuable laptop safe with this, well, laptop safe (left). Made of steel, the brackets attach to a dorm bed and won’t damage furniture. $74.99; Dormco.com